Try one or more of these eight simple things to make your child’s big day into one he or she will remember for years to come.
A child’s birthday is a reason for the whole family to celebrate. While a blowout bash with Instagram-worthy decor is one way to mark the occasion, some families prefer a different approach.
Here are eight simple ways to make your child’s next birthday special.
Count It Down
The fun can begin long before the big day arrives. Whether you’re crossing days off the calendar, working your way up a paper chain, or simply marking the number of days until your child’s birthday in a prominent place in the house, counting down to the birthday extends the celebration, shows your child that you’re excited about his or her birthday, and builds beautiful anticipation of the big day.Morning Surprise
When the big day arrives, what a thrill it is for a child to wake up to a special birthday surprise! You could decorate his or her chair at the dining table, fill his or her room with balloons, hang streamers in the doorway, or simply add birthday decor throughout your home. Let the birthday begin with big smiles!Birthday Pancakes
Just because it’s breakfast time doesn’t mean you can’t have cakes—pancakes, anyway, with sprinkles, of course. Put a birthday candle in a stack of pancakes and get the party started bright and early.Hide the Presents
You could simply set out your colorfully wrapped gifts for your child, but why do that when you can send him or her off with a clue that initiates a scavenger hunt that leads, eventually, to birthday presents? It takes some preparation, but the giggles and delight are worth it.Wrap Your Child’s Lunch
If your child is in school on his or her birthday, make lunch a party by wrapping the individual components in the lunchbox with birthday wrapping. Be sure to include a birthday note and a special sweet treat!Play Hooky
Better yet, if it’s a school day, opt for birthday fun instead. It’s only once a year. Perhaps you could check in with the teacher to confirm that your child wouldn’t be missing something important and then break away for a day of fun.Birthday Flair
A little birthday accessory can make the whole day feel special no matter where your child goes. A hat, a crown, a special T-shirt, a pin—give the birthday kid something that tells the world, “It’s my birthday!”Experiences Over Things
When it comes to gifts, consider the benefits of choosing experiences over things. Rather than another toy or gadget, how about a class, a day out, an event, or even a trip? Memories such as this last a lifetime and become the signposts of a happy childhood.
